2021 saw Sha’Carri Richardson become a subject of global scrutiny, owing to the doping allegations that canned the LSU star from the Olympics. Despite the ensuing turmoil, the million-dollar footwear brand Nike refused to break bonds with Richardson, supporting the athlete in her uphill battle. Now, as the star athlete is back in all her glory, Nike inked the streets to mark the revival of the sprinting genius.

Cheers erupted in Nemzeti Atlétikai Központ stadium in Budapest when Richardson sprinted her way through 100m heat and clinched the victory. Following this, she once again stood atop the podium by bagging another gold for the United States in 4x100m relay. As she made haven in the hearts of millions and marked her return, Nike rejoiced the moment with a special billboard.

Sha’Carri Richardson shines with Nike at Madison Square Garden

Sha’Carri Richardson became one of the few athletes to have a place of honor at the Madison Square Garden Walk of Fame. The honor is bestowed upon “athletes, artists, announcers, and coaches” to recognize their contribution to the sport. Nike inducted Sha’Carri Richardson into the Walk of Fame at the notable location after her impressive medal-winning feat at the World Athletics Championships.

LSU Track and Field shared the moment on X with a picture of the billboard and a caption reading, “The new @Nike board outside Madison Square Garden for@itskerrii…”. The billboard showed the Dallas-born athlete in full flair shouting out in joy while holding the U.S. flag.

The words from Richardson’s earlier proclamation, “I’m Not Back. I’m Better,” were printed in bold letters. With this billboard, the track and field star has also joined the ranks of some of the biggest names in U.S. sporting history.

The committee first instituted the Walk of Fame to support the research for multiple sclerosis. Since then, many great athletes have been featured on the billboard. Among them were NBA legend Michael Jeffrey Jordan and heavyweight champion boxer Muhammad Ali. While Nike wished Sha’Carri Richardson to enjoy the same level of glory as these all-time greats, their support for the superstar athlete didn’t just end there.

Watch This Story: Sticking With Sha’Carri Richardson During Her Dark Times in 2021, Nike’s Swoosh Carries American Athlete Across Finishing Line in Budapest

Nike’s enduring support for Sha’Carri Richardson

Nike had designed a special shoe for the American ace before she left for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest. Sha’Carri Richardson wore the same shoes when she bested the two Jamaican rivals in the 100-meter sprint.

She zapped both Shericka Jackson and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, finishing the race in 10.65 seconds. With this, Richardson became the fastest woman in the world. After the race, there was much curiosity about the unique properties of the shoe.

Sha’Carri Richardson wore the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly track and field distance spikes for the race. Nike had specially designed it to absorb the vibrations and also provide better traction on the track. With this billboard tribute, the brand has announced its resolve to continue supporting her as she prepares for the Olympics.

Read More: Disappointed Jamaican Fans Turning Pale Go Viral as Sha’Carri Richardson Defeats Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce at 2023 World Athletics Championship